lily lily:
If he's still living at home, he has to abide by house rules.
Many a child has left home for good under such quotations and of course there is the matter of a lifetime of relationships to be considered.
"do this or else" is likely not new to the 18 year old and if its still be used then that is what she will have taught him.
Ultimatums.
Not a good llesson to pass on.
Continuing my last point, why shouldn't he return that sentiment in later years.
"I'm not coming home for the holidays because I won't stay under a roof that dictates to me".
"No, mom, you can't come up to see the kids because I'm to busy and don't need a lecture on how to raise them properly".
"No, mom. You will not buy my kids toys I told you not to because I said so. If you can't abide by my rules then you won't see them".
Inflexibility and rigidness is quite possibly the very lesson she will pass on.